- By Iram Hussain
- Tue, 15 Jul 2025 12:21 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The rainy season brings a mix of relief and worry, especially when it comes to storing pantry essentials. High humidity and unwanted pests can wreak havoc on grains, making them spoil quickly. However, there's no need to panic as some simple home remedies can come to the rescue. These cost-effective methods will not only protect your grains from insects but also shield them from the damaging effects of humidity. By adopting these clever hacks, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your pantry staples will remain fresh and safe for a long time even during the wettest of months.
With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can safeguard your grains and ensure a steady supply of wholesome food for you and your loved ones. Here, we've compiled some best hacks that you must follow to keep your grains fresh and pest-free.
Hacks To Protect Your Grains In Rainy Season
Neem Leaves
Harness the power of neem leaves to safeguard your grains. Place a few leaves in your containers to prevent insects and spoilage. Neem's potent anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties create a natural barrier while keeping your grains fresh and protected from infestation.
ALSO READ: 3 Simple Tips To Protect Your Pulses And Grains From Insects| Know From Nutritionist
Salt
Simply place a small packet of salt inside containers to absorb moisture and maintain dryness. This clever trick discourages insect activity, leveraging salt's natural desiccant properties to create an inhospitable environment for pests.
Bay Leaves
Protect your pulses with the potent power of bay leaves. Simply tuck a few leaves into your lentils or legumes and their pungent scent will repel insects while keeping your grains clean and safe. This natural and non-toxic method ensures your pulses remain fresh and healthy for a longer period.
Tips to keep your grains fresh in monsoon (Image Credits: Canva)
Mustard Oil
Shield your pulses from moisture with a few drops of mustard oil. This simple yet effective trick creates a protective layer, harnessing the oil's natural anti-bacterial properties to prevent dampness, spoilage and nutrient loss.
ALSO READ: How Can You Spot ‘Keede’ In Rice? Which Are 7 Home Remedies To Keep Weevils Away From Grains?
Cloves
Simply add a few whole cloves to your semolina (suji) and let their intense fragrance work its magic. This natural and chemical-free method effectively deters bugs and insects.
Red Chillies
Safeguard your flour from pesky insects with the fiery power of whole red chillies. Adding a few dried chillies to your flour creates a potent barrier, repelling insects with their intense aroma.